ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A mild earthquake measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale was felt in Peshawar and surrounding areas on Wednesday morning, causing temporary panic among residents but no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Epicentre Located in Hindu Kush, Depth Recorded at 211 Kilometres
According to the National Seismological Centre, the quake originated in the Hindu Kush mountain range in northeastern Afghanistan. The tremors were recorded at a depth of 211 kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface, a factor that often reduces the destructive impact of seismic activity on the ground.
Recent Seismic Activity in the Region
This latest tremor follows a series of moderate earthquakes that have impacted the region over the past two months. Approximately one month ago, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck parts of northern Pakistan, including Islamabad, Mardan, Swat, Nowshera, Swabi, and North Waziristan. That quake also had its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region, at a slightly deeper depth of 230 kilometres.
Earlier in April, a 5.5-magnitude quake shook various areas of northern Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The quake was shallow, recorded at a depth of just 12 kilometres, and was felt across Attock, Chakwal, Peshawar, Mohmand, Lakki Marwat, and Lower Dir.
Pakistan’s Location on a Major Tectonic Boundary
Pakistan sits at the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it highly susceptible to seismic events. Much of South Asia lies in a seismically active zone as the Indian plate continues its northward push beneath the Eurasian plate, triggering frequent tremors across the region.
Karachi’s Recent Seismic Disturbances
While northern regions frequently experience quakes due to proximity to tectonic boundaries, Karachi has recently drawn attention after experiencing around 30 minor tremors within a few days. Chief Meteorologist Aamir Haider attributed the activity to the reactivation of the long-dormant Landhi Fault Line, which is believed to be undergoing a normalisation process.
Authorities have advised citizens to remain calm but alert, and to follow safety protocols during any future tremors.